Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there: your car keys won't turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.
There are many solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to start their car is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy but be careful. The key is extremely thin and can break if bent even slightly.
To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and pliers. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your key will still function.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can sometimes get stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of machines. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own a newer car that uses keys with microchips in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to fix.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they remain in good shape and soft.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They can also offer various other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery could cause you to lose the power source in your car and cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car has been having issues beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time to get a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. learn the facts here now could be confused or cease communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming by an expert. Try these easy techniques before buying the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits a signal to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer in the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you have is a blade type or a key fob or has a large black or grey head, it will need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.